When Should an Employee Contact a DOT SAP?

Are you having a hard time finding a DOT SAP? For employees in safety-sensitive positions, a violation of DOT’s drug and alcohol regulations can have significant implications. Under the DOT’s guidelines, any employee in a safety-sensitive role, such as a truck driver, pilot, or transit worker, who tests positive for drugs or alcohol, or refuses a test, must be removed from their duties immediately. To regain eligibility for their role, they are required to complete the DOT’s return-to-duty process with the assistance of a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

When Should an Employee Start Finding a DOT SAP?

Immediately Following a Positive Drug or Alcohol Test: The most crucial time for an employee to work on finding a DOT SAP is immediately after a positive drug or alcohol test or a refusal to test. This step is mandatory to begin the return-to-duty process. A SAP serves as the professional evaluator who will assess the employee, recommend treatment or education, and oversee their progress until they are cleared to return to work. Quick action ensures that the employee can start this process without unnecessary delays.

Locating a SAP immediately helps minimize the time spent out of work. Since the return-to-duty process requires several steps—including an evaluation, treatment or education, recommendations for follow-up testing, and final approval from the SAP—starting promptly allows the employee to regain their qualifications and return to their role as soon as possible.

After a Substance-Related Incident On the Job: If an employee experiences a substance-related incident or is involved in an accident that leads to mandatory drug or alcohol testing, a positive result would require them to contact a SAP. Since they’ll be removed from their safety-sensitive duties, it’s important for an employee to contact SAP quickly so they can begin the return to duty process.

During the Follow-Up Testing Phase: Once the employee has completed their follow-up evaluation and return-to-duty test, the SAP will also recommend a follow-up testing schedule. Employers who have any questions about this schedule should speak with the SAP to ensure they fully understand the requirements. Missing follow-up tests can result in further violations for the employer.

Contact SAP Referral Services for Assistance with Locating a DOT SAP

For safety-sensitive employees under DOT regulations, finding a DOT SAP is a critical step after a positive drug or alcohol test. The sooner they connect with a SAP, the sooner they can work toward regaining their eligibility for duty. By following the SAP’s recommendations and maintaining compliance, employees demonstrate their commitment to safety and accountability, which benefits both them and their employers. Contact SAP Referral Services to learn more and get started.